Expert Insight from Michael D’Netto, M.D.
An estimated 10% of Americans report a penicillin allergy, but studies show that over 90% of them are not truly allergic. Mislabeling can lead to the use of less effective or more expensive antibiotics, increasing the risk of side effects, antibiotic resistance, and longer hospital stays.
At WinnMed in Decorah,Michael D’Netto, M.D., Mayo Clinic Health System Allergist and Immunologist, offers penicillin allergy testing to help patients safely determine whether they are truly allergic—and potentially remove the label for good.
“Many patients carry a penicillin allergy label for years based on childhood reactions or vague symptoms,” says Dr. D’Netto. “But with proper evaluation and testing, we can often confirm they’re not allergic and open the door to safer, more effective treatments.”
What Is Penicillin Allergy Testing?
The evaluation may include:
This process is safe, quick, and highly accurate. A negative result means the patient can safely take penicillin and related antibiotics in the future.
Why It Matters
Removing an incorrect penicillin allergy label can:
“Penicillin allergy testing is one of the most impactful things we can do for long-term patient safety,” Dr. D’Netto adds.
If you’ve been told you’re allergic to penicillin, talk to your provider about a referral to Dr. D’Netto for testing. You may not be allergic after all—and that knowledge could change your care for the better.
Make an appointment
Dr. D’Netto is accepting new patients at WinnMed in Decorah. Call WinnMed at 563-382-2911 or request an appointment online through WinnMed’s online portal, MyChart.
